Computer sockets are the built-in interfaces on motherboards that accept various hardware components. When compatible devices are plugged into computer sockets, they communicate with the system to provide functionality. Dial-up modems, graphics cards and sound cards are just some examples.

Computer sockets use standardized protocols to communicate with the devices that are designed to plug into them. When protocols change, computer sockets are renamed, and manufacturers keep pace by designing products that utilize the newer protocols. Computer sockets in the 1980s were referred to as Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) slots, followed by Enhanced IDE (EIDE) slots.

In some areas technology has moved beyond computer sockets to faster interfaces. Traditional IDE hard drives required wide cables that used parallel technology to sent data back and forth from computer sockets to the drives. Modern hard drives use an entirely different interface based on serial communication that uses narrow cables and small pin-style interfaces. This not only allowed faster drives, but saved real estate on motherboards and improved airflow inside cases.

On average, motherboards have far fewer computer sockets today than in the past. Many devices are now built into the motherboard, reducing the need to add so much hardware. Aside from integrated network ability, USB and Firewire support, some motherboards also include integrated graphics and sound functionality. Gamers and audiophiles, however, continue to opt for high-end aftermarket video graphics cards and sound cards. These devices each require their own computer socket.

While sound cards and many other devices use standard slots, modern motherboards feature other types of computer sockets including a dedicated graphics slot. Graphics cards handle large amounts of data, and as such, the interface is designed to process greater loads without bogging down the central processing unit. There are four main graphics standards for dedicated computer sockets: Advanced Graphics Port (AGP) 4x, AGP 8x, Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), and PCI Express (PCIe). The computer sockets are proprietary, meaning an AGP card will not fit into a PCI slot, or visa versa.

Knowing what kind of computer sockets a motherboard has when purchasing a new system is a good idea. If you desire the latest, fastest graphics card, for instance, you’ll be looking at PCIe cards and will require a PCIe computer socket or slot. You might also have other cards (hardware devices) to install. Be sure the motherboard has the right computer sockets to accommodate the hardware and enough slots to meet your needs with room for expansion.